I do not approach the employee from a negative place, but rather what is the real root of the problem and how can I get this employee over this phase that could be counter-productive.» (inc.com)
Your best option is to manage up and understand the real root of the problem.» (fortune.com)
Rather than blaming the person or situation that set you off, seek out the real root of the problem. (relevantmagazine.com)